If he was met with any shuffling, or if they merely referred him to his father, the next step would be plain enough.
Clem began to exhibit sullenness; her words were few, and it was fortunate for Joseph that he could oppose a philosophical indifference to the trouble with which his honeymoon was threatened.

As early as possible on Monday morning he ascended the stairs of a building in Furnival's Inn and discovered the office Of Messrs.

Percival and Feel.
He was hesitating whether to knock or simply turn the handle, when a man came up to the same door, with the quick step of one at home in the place.
'Business with us ?' inquired the newcomer, as Joseph drew back.
They looked at each other.

He who had spoken was comparatively a young man, dressed with much propriety, gravely polite in manner.
'Ha! How do you do ?' exclaimed Snowdon, with embarrassment, and in an undertone.

'I wasn't expecting--' The recognition was mutual, and whilst Joseph, though disconcerted, expressed his feelings in a familiar smile, the other cast a quick glance of uneasiness towards the stairs, his mouth compressed, his eyebrows twitching a little.
'Business with Mr.Percival ?' he inquired confidentially, but without Joseph's familiar accentuation.
'Yes.